Netanyahu defuses feud and bows to US

22/3/10

Israel has agreed to hold off on building plans in east Jerusalem. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised the US his government will delay new building plans in east Jerusalem and free Palestinian prisoners to defuse the worst feud with Washington in decades, Israeli cabinet ministers say. Four ministers confirmed reports last night that Mr Netanyahu had bowed to the US on the eve of a trip to Washington. He agreed also to ease Israel’s blockade of Gaza and discuss all major issues dividing Israel and the Palestinians in US-mediated negotiations. It would be the first time the blockade has been relaxed since the 22-day Gaza war ended in January last year.